Online Programs in Abnormal Psychology
There are few online degree programs in abnormal psychology available, though a number of universities allow people interested in the subject to take online abnormal psychology courses without registering as students. Some online bachelor's programs in psychology include an abnormal psychology specialization, while some online psychology master's programs include an abnormal psychology course. Online schools also offer some specialized programs in specific areas of abnormal psychology, such as eating disorders.
Most online abnormal psychology programs or courses are designed for completion within other, larger programs of study or for people who are simply interested in the field and do not want a degree. These online psychology programs are not typically designed to end with licensure or certification. However, some online master's and doctorate programs in psychology allow individuals to create their own courses, for which they may choose abnormal psychology if appropriate faculty members are available.
Online Abnormal Psychology Degrees to Consider:
At the UC Berkeley Extension, online students can pursue specialized programs of study in areas related to specific types of abnormal psychology. Specialized programs of study typically involve 30 to 90 hours of coursework contained in about three classes on a special topic. The UC Berkeley Extension offers courses in areas like anxiety and mood disorders.
At Park University, students can earn an online psychology bachelor's degree with a concentration in clinical and abnormal psychology. Of the required 120 hours for the degree, 51 are in the major field, and include courses in areas like human growth and development. Abnormal psychology concentration areas include social deviance and sociology of mental health.
Introduction to Abnormal Psychology Careers
Abnormal psychology is a branch of psychology concerned with unusual behavioral, emotional and mental patterns. The field can cover a broad range of topics, from depression to sexual deviance. Psychologists specializing in abnormal psychology usually approach their work from three major perspectives: the medical, cognitive and/or behavioral approaches. The medical approach examines the underlying causes of disorders by focusing on potential biological causes, and may involve the prescription of medications in addition to therapeutic approaches. The cognitive approach deals more with internal mental reasoning, which may play a part in psychological disorders. This approach attempts to alter a patient's mental processes (i.e. the patient's reaction to a given situation). Finally, there is the behavioral approach, which deals with observable actions, working by positively reinforcing good behaviors. While psychologists specializing in abnormal psychology are not limited to these three approaches in patient treatment, they are among the most commonly used.
Abnormal Psychology Job Description
Psychologists who specialize in abnormal psychology may work in a variety of settings, including psychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, schools and private practices. In these settings, psychologists will deal directly with patients to treat a range of mood, anxiety, cognitive and developmental disorders. Psychologists specializing in abnormal psychology will work with patients to pinpoint abnormal behaviors and treat them accordingly; this could involve anything from regular therapy to referals to psychiatrists. Psychologists must meet regularly with patients and track their progress.
Psychologists specializing in abnormal psychology may also find employment at colleges or universities where they can both teach students and undertake research in the field.
Abnormal Psychology Requirements
In some cases, a master's degree may be sufficient for assisting in psychology research or landing a basic counseling job. Those who wish to work independently in teaching or treatment, though, will need to obtain a doctoral degree from an accredited institution. This requires about four to five years of schooling, plus practical training under the supervision of a certified psychologist. Psychologists must also obtain a license before they can practice independently and treat patients. Licensing laws vary by state but in most cases a doctoral degree, completion of an approved internship and one to two years of on-the-job experience are requirements. A standardized licensing exam is also a must.
Abnormal Psychology Career Outlook
Job opportunities for psychologists, including those specializing in abnormal psychology, are expected to grow 12 percent from 2008 to 2018. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average median salary of clinical, counseling and school psychologists to be $66,040, while psychologists working in other areas can expect a median annual wage of $86,540. Salaries also depend largely on place of employment: a psychologist working at a general hospital earns an average of $89,450 annually, while a psychologist working in scientific research earns an average of $91,260 annually.
Abnormal Psychology Degree Programs
Welcome to the most complete directory on the Web of Abnormal Psychology programs. It contains all the nationally accredited programs, from 21 schools across the country.
